Memorial Day

Jeffrey Green and Wesley Durbin were both members both members of the class of 2001 from Lutheran High School of Dallas.  Like most high school graduates they had dreams for the future.  In this case they shared a common goal to join the United States Marines.  As students they kind of blended in.  They were not great athletes, or outstanding students.  They were just good kids who wanted to serve their country.  They were the kind of low maintenance students so as the school counselor I had little contact with them.  They were proud to be Marines and often visited campus when they were home on leave.  They both lost their lives as during while on duty in the Middle East. 

I think of Jeffrey and Wesley every year on Memorial Day.  Like any young person who joins the military, they just desired to serve their country.  I am sure they knew the risks, were willing to go into harm’s way just the same.  That is usually the case with those who serve their country in times of combat.  The freedom of others is more important than their own welfare.

If there is a lesson to be learned it is that we need to value the time we have with those we minister to.  We never know when God will call them home.  Make sure they know Jesus and experience His love and grace.  In the case of Jeffrey and Wesley, I am confident they carried the torch of faith to their graves.  We live in a great country.  I am proud to say I mentored two young men who died defending it.